Start with Purpose

Before you get too deep into the design process, it is important to determine the purpose of your kitchen island. Are you wanting to add additional storage, extra countertop space, a dining area, or even a combination of all of these? Defining the island’s primary function will help guide you through the rest of the design decisions.

Consider Your Space

Measure your kitchen’s footprint to determine the size and shape that your kitchen island will be. The island must be balanced within the overall kitchen layout, and it should not obstruct the natural traffic flow throughout the space. Adding an island might require moving other appliances around so your work triangle (path between your sink, refrigerator, and stove) is not disturbed. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least three feet of clearance on all sides of the island to ensure comfortable movement all around.

Style and Materials

Your kitchen island should harmonize and complement the existing design theme of your kitchen. Whether your kitchen has rustic farmhouse charm or a more sleek, modern elegance, the new island materials, colors, and finishes should blend with the overall aesthetic of the space. Maybe a waterfall kitchen island is a good choice for your space or even a 2-tier kitchen island. Both of these can be a bold choice but they can add personality and flair to your space. Furthermore, when choosing materials for your island, consider the durability and lifespan of your options. Granite, quartz, marble, and butcher block are popular countertop choices due to their durability. Additionally, choose cabinetry made from solid wood or a high-quality MDF to ensure a solid foundation that will stand against the test of time.

Storage and Function

The ultimate function of your kitchen island lies in your storage solutions. Don’t overlook these important decisions when it comes to your kitchen design. Use drawers, cabinets, and shelving to store pots, pans, utensils, and other kitchen essentials. Deep drawers with dividers can neatly organize cookware and cutting boards. Maximize functionality by adding a built-in wine rack, a microwave, or pull-out trash bins. Adding these elements to your island can streamline your kitchen tasks without jeopardizing appearance.

Light it Up

Another choice to make sure you don’t make too hastily is the proper lighting for your island. Lighting adds both to the functionality and aesthetic of the island so it is pivotal that you make a decision that will enhance both of these. Pendant lights suspended above the island are the most popular choice as they not only illuminate the workspace but also serve as eye-catching focal points. Choose fixtures that complement and enhance your existing design theme.

Room to Graze

If one of your goals with adding a kitchen island is to use it as an additional dining area, make sure you choose seating options that fit into your lifestyle. Bar stools or counter-height chairs can help create a casual atmosphere, while including a cushioned seat can add a touch of comfort and elegance if you choose tufted upholstery. Remember to leave plenty of legroom beneath the counter for a comfortable and spacious dining experience.

As you embark on designing a functional and beautiful kitchen island, remember that balance is key. An island should enhance your workflow and harmonize with your personal style. By carefully considering the purpose, dimensions, materials, storage options, and aesthetics, you can build an island that becomes the heart of your kitchen and a focal point for all who enter. If you’re still not sure where to start after reading through these tips, your local Kitchen Solvers team is here to help you! Call us today for a free in-home consultation to start making your kitchen dreams a reality.

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If you’re interested in transforming the appearance of your kitchen, one of the most effective solution is renovating your kitchen island, and while there are several ways you could makeover your island, one of the most effective is adding a waterfall.

Instead of your island ending at the edge of a countertop, a waterfall cascades to the floor, creating a seamless design that will make your kitchen look great. If you’re interested in adding a waterfall, it’s a good idea to learn more about this design feature and how to add it to your kitchen. Here are a few facts to help you decide if you should add a waterfall to a kitchen island when you’re planning your next kitchen remodel.

Why Waterfalls are a Great Choice

For many homeowners, making their kitchen as stylish and elegant as possible is extremely important, and adding a waterfall is one of the best ways to achieve this aesthetic.

A perfect fit for kitchens with contemporary design, island waterfalls can tie together the look of your kitchen, creating clean lines and serving as the centerpiece of the room. A waterfall is one of the best finishing touches you could choose for your kitchen and is a design feature that you’ll love to show off when hosting.

Island Waterfall Materials

If you want to add a waterfall to a kitchen island, you’ll be pleased to learn that you’ll be able to choose from a wide range of high-quality materials, allowing you to create the gorgeous waterfall that you deserve.

To create an island waterfall with a refined feel, you could choose travertine, marble, granite, or even quartz. On the other hand, if you’re interested in keeping your costs as low as possible, you could have your waterfall made out of wood or concrete, which will look great without breaking the bank. Whatever style you want for your island waterfall, you should be able to find a material that fits your needs.

Be Careful About Choosing Stone

If you love the look of natural stone, you can choose this material for your island waterfall. However, if you decide to use natural stone, there are a few factors that you need to keep in mind.

For example, cutting the edges where your waterfall will meet the top of your island is very delicate work that must be performed by an experienced stone fabricator. You should be sure that the professional you hire to create your natural stone waterfall has the right tools for the job and the skills necessary to complete your project.

Add a Waterfall to a Kitchen Island

Adding a waterfall to your kitchen island is one of the best ways to transform the look of your kitchen for the better. If you’re ready to add a waterfall to a kitchen island, then you need to get help from the team at Kitchen Solvers.

Kitchen Solvers knows how to make your remodeling project fun and easy, and we can help you makeover your kitchen by adding a gorgeous waterfall to your kitchen island. Take a trip to one of our locations today so that our team can help you plan your project.

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